Describes how a ball's motion duplicates that of a charged particle moving through a magnetic field and thereby allows students to visualize directly many aspects of charged particle dynamics otherwise not accessible to them. (Author/JN)

Presented is a form of Hamilton's principle for classical mechanics appropriate to the study of arbitrary self-sustained vibrations in one dimension. It is applied as an approximate computational tool to the study of several examples of anharmonic oscillation. (Author/GA)

Describes the development and analysis of the Test of Understanding Graphs in Kinematics (TUG-K) and reports the results of a study aimed at uncovering student problems with interpreting kinematics graphs. Proposes a model for creating multiple choice tests which can be used as diagnostic tools. Contains 34 references. (DDR)

Explores evolutionary changes in students' (n=46) motion-related language mediated by computer-based Newtonian microworlds. Documents how ways of talking emerge and how the convergence of meaning arises from the affordances provided by the interpretive flexibility of the microworld, conversations with the teacher, and the microworld which assures…

Presents a lesson designed to give teachers the know-how to offer secondary school students opportunities to model real-world phenomena through a variety of functions and construct and draw inferences from tables and graphs summarizing data from these situations. Investigates the roller-coaster questions in a graduate class on methods of teaching…

Presents two real world applications that use derivatives and are related to computing the distance required to stop an airplane. Examines the curve-fitting techniques used to develop an equation for braking force and develops equations for the deceleration and speed. (DDR)

Draws on current research to advocate the importance of children's need for physical activity and the benefits of teaming literature with movement and dramatic play. Focuses on: (1) brain research on movement; (2) poems and stories that highlight movement; and (3) movement and imagination. Contains 22 references and lists 39 children's books. (SD)

Explains how physics teaching can be more relevant for elementary and secondary students by integrating physics and earth science content that students can relate to and understand. Identifies and explains Earth contexts that can be appropriately implemented into the physics curriculum such as waves, magnetism, and electricity. (Author/YDS)

Discussed is the importance of using scale drawings in teaching physics. Concepts including the orbit of the Space Shuttle, the smoothness of the earth's surface, the oblateness of the earth, the eccentricity of the earth's orbit, and the solar system are illustrated. (CW)

Explores the power transfer using (1) a simple electric circuit consisting of a power source with internal resistance; (2) two different mechanical systems (gravity driven and constant force driven); (3) ecological examples; and (4) a linear motor. (YP)

Reports various misconceptions of Newton's third law obtained from interviews and written tests of high school students. Suggests putting emphasis on the third law in physics teaching. Ten references are listed. (YP)

Discusses a group project for a physics laboratory using various pendulums. Presents diagrams of pendulums, describes how to make a pendulum, and provides suggestions for guiding students in the laboratory. (YP)

Describes three experiments with an air table to produce a centripetal force. Provides some diagrams and pictures of the apparatus. (YP)

Discusses the general construction of an air track. Describes three demonstrations including elastic collision, forced oscillators, and coupled oscillators. Provides a diagram and four pictures. Suggests how a similar exhibit could be constructed with a modest budget. (YP)

Presents a lesson in the mechanics of rotation which deals with setting the playground swing into motion. Discusses the scientific principles involved in these procedures. Illustrations of several explanations are included. (RT)